Workwear versus protective
clothing
Using these terms interchangeably is a mistake. Workwear replaces the employee’s own clothes. It protects them from substances that are not harmful to life or health. It is also used for hygiene reasons and... can be an excellent advertising tool and a showcase for the company. The second type – protective clothing – must, above all, be certified. It is personal protective equipment (it protects health and life against hazards, e.g. mechanical, chemical or atmospheric). An example of this type of clothing is high-visibility clothing.
How to choose clothing for employees?
Above all, it is not worth focusing on price. Low-quality materials and ill-fitting styles can significantly affect the quality of work and, above all, fail to adequately protect your team. Before choosing protective clothing, tell the advisors about the specifics of the work, and then ask about the certificates and approvals for the available products. When it comes to workwear – consider exactly what the pavers in your team need. Breathable, easy-to-clean, quick-drying materials will be ideal! When selecting trousers and jackets, also consider the issue of pockets and tool loops. It needs to be practical and comfortable.
Remember about the seasons
The nature of outdoor work means employers must provide staff with clothing suited to the current weather conditions. If tasks are carried out in cold temperatures and rain, provide everyone with insulated work jackets featuring a hood and drawstrings at the sleeves to protect against the cold. Dressing in layers increases thermal comfort, but unfortunately also restricts movement. Clothing for the spring and summer seasons should be made of lightweight, breathable and high-quality materials that are highly resistant to damage.
A balance between safety and comfort
The category of workwear and protective clothing also includes, for example, helmets, safety goggles, dust masks and knee pads. Particular attention should be paid to the choice of footwear. Bearing in mind the level of risk, one should always choose impact-resistant models, fitted with toe caps to protect the toes, and resistant to chemical substances. Other important features include water resistance and breathability (ventilation holes). The sole must be made of non-slip, puncture-resistant, electrically insulating and anti-static materials. In some cases, it is worth considering resistance to contact with hot surfaces.
Tailored for a paver!
Workwear and protective clothing should be individually selected for each employee. Thanks to a good fit, the clothing will not restrict movement. Remember that clothing that is too tight is uncomfortable, whilst clothing that is too loose increases the risk of accidents (e.g. tripping or getting caught in moving machine parts).
